King Charles waited more than 70 years to ascend the throne, finally becoming monarch after the death of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022. Yet just a short time into his reign, conversations are already turning toward what comes next—specifically, the future of Prince William as king.

Since Charles’ cancer diagnosis last year, some have speculated whether it’s time for him to step aside and allow William to take over. Though intriguing, one expert insists such a transition won’t happen, saying William should forget any idea of being handed the crown early.

Queen Elizabeth’s passing still stunned many, despite her long reign. Charles, who had prepared his entire life to take the throne, was 73 when he finally did. Unfortunately, his rule was quickly complicated by serious health concerns.

Though he remains in good spirits, Charles’ condition has raised the question of abdication. Some argue that stepping down would allow him to focus on recovery and give the country a more stable leader. But after waiting decades, it’s understandable he’s reluctant to give up what he worked so long for.

A royal source shared with Woman’s Day that Charles had already accepted that his time as king might be brief. “He’s weaker and tires easily, and doctors are urging him to slow down,” the source said. “He’s struggling with whether stepping aside is the noble thing to do.”

Still, Charles has reportedly had private discussions with William about the future. “Some of his plans have had to be handed over. Cancer has changed him,” the insider added. “There’s no one he’d rather spend time with than Camilla, and stepping back could allow more of that.”